Ouzo is a traditional alcoholic drink in Greece, usually served as an aperitif before a meal. It’s famous for its unique taste that comes from its ingredients, mainly anise and other botanicals.

Enjoying ouzo with appetizers is a customary way of serving it, as it helps to stimulate the appetite and prepares the palate for the main course. In this article, we will explore the perfect appetizer options that go well with ouzo.

Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is an ideal appetizer for ouzo. It’s a white cheese made from sheep’s milk, and its salty taste contrasts perfectly with the anise flavors of ouzo. You can serve feta cheese plain or drizzled with olive oil and fresh herbs.

Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a Greek dip made from yogurt, cucumber, and garlic. Its tangy taste and creamy texture make it a perfect match for ouzo. You can serve tzatziki with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.

Olives

Olives are a classic Greek appetizer that pairs well with ouzo. They’re salty, tangy, and have a slightly bitter taste that complements the anise flavors of ouzo. You can serve olives plain or stuffed with cheese or anchovies.

Greek Salad

A Greek salad is a refreshing and healthy appetizer that pairs perfectly with ouzo. It’s made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil and vinegar.

The fresh vegetables and salty cheese balance the anise flavors of ouzo.

Grilled Octopus

Grilled octopus is a delicacy in Greece. It’s tender, flavorful, and pairs well with ouzo. The charred flavor and texture of the octopus complement the anise flavors of ouzo. You can serve grilled octopus with lemon and olive oil dressing.

Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a Greek dish of grilled meat on a skewer. It’s usually made with pork, chicken, or lamb. Souvlaki dipped in tzatziki pairs well with ouzo. The savory and juicy meat and the tangy and creamy tzatziki balance the anise flavors of ouzo.

Dolmades

Dolmades are stuffed grape leaves that are a popular Greek appetizer. They’re usually filled with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.

Dolmades pair well with ouzo because the rice and herbs provide a refreshing and light taste that complements the anise flavors of ouzo.

Crispy Calamari

Crispy calamari is a popular seafood appetizer in Greece. It’s a lightly fried dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Calamari pairs well with ouzo as the crispy exterior balances the anise flavors of ouzo, while the tender interior provides a refreshing taste.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita is a Greek spinach and cheese pastry. It’s usually made with feta cheese and phyllo dough. Spanakopita pairs well with ouzo because the salty and savory cheese and the earthy flavor of spinach complement the anise flavors of ouzo.

Meze Platter

A meze platter is a traditional Greek appetizer that includes a variety of dishes, such as olives, feta cheese, tzatziki, dolmades, and grilled vegetables.

It’s a perfect appetizer to pair with ouzo because it provides a medley of flavors and textures that complement the anise flavors of ouzo.

Conclusion

Pairing ouzo with appetizers is a traditional way of serving it. The ideal appetizers to pair with ouzo are salty, tangy, and have a light taste that balances the anise flavors of ouzo.

Feta cheese, tzatziki, olives, Greek salad, grilled octopus, souvlaki, dolmades, crispy calamari, spanakopita, and meze platters are perfect appetizers to serve with ouzo.